MEDizzy - While reviewing discharge instructions with an African

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Neonatal and High-Risk Neonatal Management

While reviewing discharge instructions with an African couple from Kenya who are being discharged to home with their 48-hour-old, full-term newborn, a nurse discovers that the parents have not named their newborn. Which action should the nurse take in response to this information?

ExplanationIn Kenya, the naming of a child is an important event. In some areas, the name is given on the third day after birth and is marked by a cele- bration. Therefore, the only intervention needed is to document this information. It is always appropriate for the nurse to observe for and encourage attachment behaviors; however, in this situation, not naming the infant is not a sign of inappropriate attachment. There is no need to delay discharge. It would be culturally inappropriate to ask the parents to choose a name before discharge.